Fall leaves can be a valuable garden resource

The cooler weather brings with it many new colors in the landscape. One aspect of fall that may not be desirable is a lawn covered with leaves, said David Hillock, Oklahoma State University Cooperative Extension Service consumer horticulturist.

“It’s important for people to realize there are other options of disposing fall leaves besides bagging them and putting them on the curb to be taken to the local landfill,” Hillock said. “Not only do the leaves take up valuable landfill space, but gardening enthusiasts are missing out on a valuable garden resource.”

Using the leaves as mulch in perennial beds is an economical option for gardeners. Rake the leaves into the beds, but be careful not to smother the plants with a pile of leaves that is too deep. Large leaves such as those on a sycamore tree may be too big to use as mulch.

Another way gardeners can be environmentally friendly is to compost the leaves. This process does not have to include expensive composting containers.

Hillock suggests digging an appropriate-sized hole in an out-of-the-way spot in the yard. Fill the hole with leaves and other bedding material that is cleaned out of the garden.

For a less time-consuming activity, Hillock suggests mowing the leaves.

“This is a fairly quick and easy way to clear your yard of fall leaves,” he said. “The leaves should be dry in order for this method to work. Also, try to mow the leaves before they pile up too deep. The chopped leaves return valuable organic matter and nutrients to the soil.”

Consumers also can capture the chopped leaves in the mower bag attachment and then distribute the leaves where needed.

Hillock said individuals who have many trees that result in a large amount of leaves on the ground may want to invest in purchasing or renting a vacuum shredder to help with leaf disposal. This piece of machinery works much quicker than a regular leaf blower.

Be sure the leaves are dry before attempting to shred or chop them. Damp leaves will most likely clog gardening tools such as shredders, vacuums or choppers.

“If you notice any diseased or infected leaves on your property, don’t use them as mulch,” Hillock said. “Diseases can overwinter in the leaf mulch and reinfect plants the following year.”

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Oklahoma State University, U.S. Department of Agriculture, State and Local Governments Cooperating: The Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Service offers its programs to all eligible persons regardless of race, color, national origin, religion, gender, age, disability, or status as a veteran, and is an equal opportunity employer.
 
Trisha Gedon
Communications Specialist
Agricultural Communications Services
136 Agriculture North
Oklahoma State University
Stillwater, OK  74078
405-744-3625 (phone)
405-744-5739 (fax)
trisha.gedon@okstate.edu